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2019 Kia Optima recalls and problems

The 2019 Kia Optima has 1 safety recall and 214 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
214
Crashes / fires
20 / 7
Injuries / deaths
16 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2019 Kia Optima vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2019 Kia Optima recalls

Recall 19V-539: Forward Collision Avoidance

Reported Jul 19, 2019 · 11,423 vehicles affected · Kia Motors America

Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Optima vehicles equipped with Gamma 1.6L Turbo-GDI or Theta II 2.0L Turbo-GDI engines. A software error in the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system may cause the braking assist function to not engage when a stationary vehicle is detected.

Risk: Improper intervention of the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist can increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will update the FCA software, free of charge. The recall began August 27, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC179.

2019 Kia Optima problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Engine93
Unknown or Other44
Forward Collision Avoidance44
Electrical System23
Power Train18
Service Brakes18
Fuel/Propulsion System17
Structure14
Air Bags12
Vehicle Speed Control11
Lane Departure9
Steering6

Most reported parts

  • Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 30
  • Structure › Body — 14
  • Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 10
  • Lane Departure › Warning — 4
  • Lane Departure › Blind Spot Detection — 3
  • Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hood › Latch — 2
  • Lane Departure › Assist — 2
  • Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 30,449 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2019 Kia Optima complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Vehicle Speed Control · reported Nov 3, 2026
I have a 2019 Kia Optima S with the 2.4L engine and 117,000 miles. The vehicle has diagnostic codes P1326 and POOOB. The check-engine light is continuously flashing, the engine is knocking, and the vehicle has lost acceleration and will not go over approximately 65 mph. I believe this may be related to the KSDS connecting-rod bearing issue under Kia campaign PI1805.
Power Train · reported Oct 31, 2026
2019 Kia Optima EX, 1.6L turbo, 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Second owner, purchased August 2019 at Jeff Wyler near Cincinnati, Ohio, not Certified Pre-Owned. Transmission was previously replaced under warranty in my first year of ownership. In spring 2026 I reported rough low-speed shifting. The dealer performed a DCT fluid service and software reset on April 27, 2026, $478.72. That shifting issue was not resolved immediately, but it eventually went away. Kia Consumer Assistance Case #26051125 replied on May 22, 2026 that the dealer was unable to duplicate any issue and the transmission…
Engine · reported Oct 9, 2026
Car smelled of what seemed like motor oil while driving. Parked, saw white smoke, and confirmed an engine fire. I was clearly in life threatening danger, especially with a full tank of gas. Fire developed rapidly into a roaring blaze. Entire front of car melted. Car is currently being investigated by manufacturer and cause is unknown. No warning lamps illuminated.
Engine · reported Oct 8, 2026
Vehicle shut off while driving at 40mph, engine seized ,will not crank .suspected conecting rod bearing failure under safety recall sc200, I call kia 18003334542 denied recall repair and bearing clearance test stating vehicle is rebuilt title. Federal safety recall cannot be denied due to rebuilt title per NHTSA .requesting recall remedy.
Fuel/Propulsion System · reported Sep 30, 2026
On XXX, Towbin Kia Service (Henderson, NV) officially diagnosed my 2019 Kia Optima (VIN: [XXX], Mileage: 118,325) with a critical component failure: "LOW PRESSURE FUEL PUMP IS LEAKING FROM TOP HAT" (Invoice #XXX). Despite documenting a severe, volatile raw fuel leak that presents an immediate fire and explosion hazard, the dealership refused to keep the vehicle. They explicitly released this active safety hazard back to me. The service department even arranged a third-party Lyft ride to transport my children and me to the dealership to pick up the leaking car and force us to drive it home. The…

Other Kia Optima years

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Frequently asked questions

Does the 2019 Kia Optima have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2019 Kia Optima: 19V-539 (forward collision avoidance). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2019 Kia Optima?

Owners report engine problems most often (93 reports), followed by unknown or other (44). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 30,449 miles.

Are Kia recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.